Art Commission - Summer 2027

Overview

Beverley Art Gallery invites proposals for a 2027 Summer commission featuring a cohesive body of new work that transforms the gallery into an active, engaging environment. The gallery seeks bold, visually striking artwork that encourages visitors to explore, interact, participate, and engage with the work, space, one another, or all three. Artists are invited to interpret the brief in ways appropriate to their practice, with a focus on creating opportunities for temporary communities to emerge through shared participation and exploration.

Key Dates

• Expression of Interest due: 25 September 2026
• Shortlist announcement: by 9 October 2026
• Site visit opportunity: week of 12 October 2026
• Final selection announcement: by 23 October 2026
• Installation dates: 14–18 June 2027
• Exhibition dates: 19 June – 28 August 2027

The Opportunity

The commission offers a £10,000 fee (funded by Arts Council England through the Humber Museums Partnership) to develop and deliver a new, cohesive project. The gallery provides technical and installation support from the Curator and Gallery attendants, press preview and marketing promotion, and the option to make work available for sale through the gallery's retail offer (gallery retains standard commission on sales).

Eligibility

Open to individual artists, duos, collectives, and groups, including those outside East Yorkshire. However, artists should consider the practicalities of travelling to Beverley for site visits, installation, and engagement activities. Artists who have previously held a solo exhibition at Beverley Art Gallery or participated in a group exhibition at the Gallery as part of the same artist group or collective are not eligible; this does not apply to Open Art exhibition participants.

What is Required

• A cohesive proposal for new work suitable for the temporary exhibition space (existing elements may be included if integral to the overall project)
• Participation in learning and engagement activities, which may include developing a workshop or activity with the Gallery's Learning Team
• Delivery of an exhibition talk or tour for the Friends of Beverley Art Gallery and the wider public

Budget and Costs

The £10,000 commission fee is intended to cover all costs and fees associated with the development and delivery of the proposed project, including artist fees, materials, fabrication, transport, travel, accommodation, specialist production requirements, equipment hire, and costs associated with performance, live activity, or other project elements. For group applications, the fee must cover all participants, and proposals should explain how it will be allocated collaboratively.

Media

Artists may work in any medium, provided the work aligns with the commission brief and gallery environment.